42
Performance & Direction: 42 Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is 42 (2013) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and 42 features a noteworthy lineup led by Chadwick Boseman . Supported by the likes of Harrison Ford and Nicole Beharie , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: 42
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2013, 42 is a Drama film directed by Brian Helgeland. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Chadwick Boseman.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. In 1947, Jackie Robinson becomes the first Black man to play in Major League Baseball facing unabashed racism from the public, the press and other players. The screenplay takes time to develop Chadwick Boseman's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Chadwick Boseman's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
Ending Explained: 42
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Brian Helgeland, 42 resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Chadwick Boseman, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of 42 reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch 42?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Chadwick Boseman or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Box Office Collection: 42
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $40.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $95.0M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
42 Budget
The estimated production budget for 42 is $40.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: 42
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Where to Watch 42 Online?
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Apple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTube42 Parents Guide & Age Rating
2013 AdvisoryWondering about 42 age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of 42 is 128 minutes (2h 8m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.2/10, and global performance metrics, 42 is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2013 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 42 worth watching?
42 is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 7.2/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find 42 parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for 42 identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of 42?
The total duration of 42 is 128 minutes, which is approximately 2h 8m long.
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How 42 Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for 42
**Overall : An incredibly inspiring story told with gravitas, quality, skill, and class.** To see a film celebrate the character, resilience, and endurance of a man that withstood prejudice, violence, and bigotry without returning hatred with hatred is just inspiring—brilliant cast with incredible performances. The film focuses on the maturity and bravery of Robinson in overcoming enormous opposition. 42 tells the story well while still capturing the weight and pressure of each moment of the game. I could see Robinson’s skill as well as his motivation and resolve. This movie portrays the sport of baseball well but is ultimately about the power of character in the face of overwhelming opposition and how it can change attitudes, hearts, and minds.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
